So, what are your elevator dimensions? Here are the important answers and resources for questions about elevator size.

Your Residential Elevator Dimension Guide

Smaller Elevator Dimensions:

​Commercial elevator dimensions can not be followed for residential projects. Typically maxing out at a cab of no more than 15 feet, this is considerably smaller than the average 22 square feet that is common in commercial elevators.

On average, residential elevators are 36 inches wide and 48 inches deep; but, this number can be altered if you have ample space.

However, as mandated by the U.S. regulations, the maximum elevator height that is permissible is 84 inches in homes. Additionally, the dimensions for the interior of the cab can measure 38 x 48 inches, 36 by 60 inches, or 40 by 54 inches. Lastly, standard load size allowed is 950 pounds, or 430kg. For smaller elevators, 750 pounds works in many residential settings.

There should be a minimum of 1 foot of deep space under the elevators lowest stop, and there should be 12 inches of concrete under it as well in the drafting of the elevator dimensions.

If you are considering a residential elevator that exceeds the mandated sizing above, please reconsider your dimensions before following through with construction. You will be in direct opposition to the strict elevator laws mandated in the country today.​

Stops Allowed:

​Specific to residential elevators, a maximum of 4 stops is permitted when configuring the elevator shaft dimensions. There must be a distance of 14 inches (at least) between each of the elevator stops. The measurement of the shaft should measure between 40 and 50 feet in the configuration. ​

ADA Requirements:

​The American Disabilities Act has set forth a variety of elevator door dimension requirements to be in adherence with the piece of legislation today. In order to comply with the ADA, residential elevators must have raised and braille floor destinations, call buttons, a button inside and outside of the lift with raised braille, visible and verbal signals to indicate elevator door directions, and the door must remain fully open for at least 3 seconds in response to a call. ​

Overall Cost:

​Generally, it is estimated that residential elevators cost anywhere between $20,000 to $30,000 for the elevator itself, with an installation cost of $40,000 to $45,000 or higher.

​Your Commercial Elevator Dimension Guide

Commercial Elevator Dimensions:

​The depth of the car must be at least 51 inches, and the width must be at least 68 inches, unless the elevator has center opening doors, in which case at least 80 inches is mandated. Commercial elevators can carry anywhere between 2,100 and 5,000 + pounds.

The inner dimensions must be between 5 and 8 feet by 4 feet 3 inches and 5 feet 8 inches by 7 feet 11 inches. They are able to accommodate more weight and people than residential elevators.​

Stops Allowed:

Unlike residential elevators, the stops are not mandated for commercial elevators. Every year, when a new, tall building is created that is the “newest, tallest building in the world,” the commercial elevator pushes the envelope and sets a new standard.​

ADA Requirements:

​To comply with ADA requirements, all elevators must be accessible to visitors in a public space. That means the elevators must be positioned in a place where people can access them with little effort.

Additionally, like residential elevators, commercial elevators must have raised and braille floor destinations, call buttons, a button inside and outside of the lift with raised braille, visible and verbal signals to indicate elevator door directions, and the door must remain fully open for at least 3 seconds in response to a call.​

Cost:

​For larger commercial elevators, they can range anywhere between $75,000 and $150,000 +. For buildings with just 2-3 stories, commercial elevators are estimated at $20,000 to $28,000 +. The cost of installation scales according to the elevator size, and can be just as much as the elevator itself.

Know Your Elevator Shaft Dimensions:

​If you would still want an expert to vet your dimensions and provide professional overview before you go ahead with an elevator installation or upgrade, that’s where our team at ElevatorLab comes into the picture.

We are an expert elevator consultancy that is able to advise on dimensions, measurements, building specs, and more, ensuring you are completely compliant with building, residential, and code requirements.

As you can see, elevators are an expensive investment, which is why you want to be absolutely sure before you move forward on any project. Feel free to get in touch with an elevator expert.